read-external

Read files from configured external repositories using absolute paths.

6|Updated Dec 11, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/UnaMentis/unamentis --skill read-external
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: read-external
Source: https://github.com/UnaMentis/unamentis/tree/main/.claude/skills/read-external
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/UnaMentis/unamentis --skill read-external

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Read-only access to external repositories configured in your environment, enabling cross-repo context without permitting modifications.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Constrained access to additional repos via settings, allowing code references, patterns, and documentation lookups.
  • Navigate and read files across local repositories using absolute paths with Glob and Grep, while preserving a strict read-only policy.
  • Use case: reference a function or pattern from a neighboring project to inform development or debugging without duplicating data.

Quick Start

Configure external repositories in .claude/settings.json under additionalDirectories, then invoke the cross-repo read tool to access files using absolute paths from those repositories.

Frequently Asked Questions about read-external

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I read files from external local repositories without modifying them?▼

To read external local repositories without modifying them, configure target directories in .claude/settings.json under additionalDirectories and invoke read-only commands to access files via absolute paths.

Can I use Glob and Grep across multiple local code repositories?▼

Yes, you can use Glob and Grep across multiple local repositories by specifying absolute paths to reference code, patterns, or documentation from configured external directories.

What is cross-repo context and how does read-only access work?▼

Cross-repo context enables referencing functions or patterns from neighboring projects to inform development. Read-only access works by applying a strict policy during invocations that blocks all file edits.

Do I need additionalDirectories configuration to access external repos?▼

Yes, you need the additionalDirectories configuration in .claude/settings.json to enable constrained access to external repositories before invoking cross-repo read tools.

Are there limitations when referencing code from neighboring projects?▼

The primary limitation is a strict read-only policy that blocks all edits. You can only navigate and read files using absolute paths within explicitly configured external repositories.